Lescol (Fluvastatin)

What is Lescol?

Lescol belongs to a group of drugs called HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors or statins.

What is Lescol used for?

Lescol is indicated for the treatment of high cholesterol in adults and children above the age of 10 years. This further prevents the heart from conditions like attacks and strokes. It also hardens the arteries.

How does Lescol work?

Lescol works by diminishing the production of some fatty substances in the body. These may even include cholesterol.

How to use Lescol

Strictly follow your doctor’s instructions and if still in doubt, check with the information label enclosed within. Do not take Lescol until you are sure about the dosage.

Lescol can be taken by mouth. If you also take cholestyramine or colestipol, first talk to your physician as he may recommend some changes in your medicinal schedule.

Even if you start feeling better, do not stop the dose.

Lescol warnings and precautions

Consumption of Lescol might make you feel dizzy and this can further increase with the intake of alcohol. So try and avoid alcohol during the course. Alcohol might as well augment the risk of liver damage, so be careful.

The diet or exercise plan given by the doctor must be abided by you. Before walking in for a dental surgery or any other treatment, consult your doctor.

Women must talk to their doctors about birth control measures. Tell your doctor beforehand about all your prescribed and non-prescribed medications.

If you feel weak or witness any pain in your muscles, have a word with your doctor immediately, especially if you feel feverish. Your doctor might ask you for some lab tests. Make sure you don’t miss any of them as these are done to determine the risk of side effects.

Also, as Lescol’s safety on children has yet not been verified, therefore, it should be kept away from children. Pregnant or lactating women are advised to discuss the risks involved, with their doctors.

What do I do if I have missed a Lescol dose?

If you have missed your Lescol dose, you should take it immediately. Avoid taking two doses at a time. If it’s time for the next dose, go for it.

What do I do if I have taken a Lescol overdose?

If you have taken a Lescol overdose, you should instantly contact the nearest poison control center. Talk to your doctor immediately and do not panic.

Lescol interactions

Lescol is likely to react with some medicines, so it is advised that you talk to a medical practitioner and consult him regarding other prescriptions.

Lescol, if made to react with some drugs, might augment the risk of muscle or kidney problems. These drugs comprise erythromycin, fibrates, immunosuppressants, niacin, azole antifungals, H₂ blockers and colchicine.

Anticoagulants are likely to interact with Lascol and amplify the risk of bleeding. The efficacy of Lescol can also be affected if it reacts with rifampin.

The risks or side effects of Lescol can be further enhanced if it interacts with ketoconazole, spironolactone, cimetidine, glyburide and digoxin.

Lescol side effects

Common side effects of Lescol are stomach pain or upset stomach and headache.

Medical aid is very important in case of severe side effects, which include muscle pain, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, allergic reactions, chills, or persistent sore throat, painful or frequent urination, change in the amount of urine produced; numbness or tingling of the skin, arm, or leg; chest pain; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; joint pain, pale stool, etc.